lemon orzo pasta recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best lemon orzo pasta recipe

I’m so excited to share this lemon orzo pasta recipe with you all. I’ve been making this dish for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The combination of the bright citrus flavor of the lemon, the nutty taste of the orzo, and the simplicity of the recipe make it a perfect choice for any occasion.

I like to think of it as a blank canvas for creativity – you can add your own twist with different herbs, spices, or protein sources. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes.

My kids love helping me cook this recipe, and they’re always eager to taste the finished product. As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe is quick, delicious, and healthy. Plus, it’s a great way to get my kids involved in cooking and learning about different cultures and cuisines.

The history of orzo pasta is fascinating – it originated in ancient Greece and was later adopted by Italian cuisine. I find it interesting to think about how this simple grain has been enjoyed for thousands of years. In terms of technique, the key to making great orzo pasta is to cook it al dente, which means it should still have a bit of bite or chew to it.

This helps the sauce cling to the pasta better and prevents it from becoming mushy.

Lemon Orzo Pasta

4.8 from 1905 votes

A zesty and comforting dish featuring orzo pasta, lemon, and a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a light lunch.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

8 oz orzo pasta
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2This is important for cooking the pasta.
3Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
4Drain the pasta and set it aside.
5While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
7Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
8Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
9Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir well to combine.
10Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
11Add the lemon juice and zest, and stir to combine.
12Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
13Season with salt and pepper to taste.
14Add the cooked orzo pasta to the skillet with the lemon cream sauce.
15Toss gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
16Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the pasta is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
17Add the chopped fresh parsley and stir to combine.
18Serve the lemon orzo pasta hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired.
19Enjoy your zesty and comforting dish.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Wooden spoon
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add chicken or shrimp to make it a heartier meal.

This lemon orzo pasta recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish for family gatherings.

The combination of flavors and textures is always a hit with my family, and I love how easy it is to customize with different herbs and spices.

Plus, it’s a great way to get my kids involved in cooking and learning about different cultures.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Orzo Pasta

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of short pasta shape you like for this recipe, but I prefer to use orzo because of its nutty flavor and texture.

Q: Can I make this recipe with gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can make this recipe with gluten-free pasta if you prefer.

Q: How do I store leftover orzo pasta?

You can store leftover orzo pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I add protein sources like chicken or shrimp to this recipe?

Yes, you can add protein sources like chicken or shrimp to this recipe if you like.

Q: What is the best way to reheat leftover orzo pasta?

The best way to reheat leftover orzo pasta is by steaming it until heated through.

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